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Ambition ... Mariners goalkeeper Mat Ryan (Getty)
Gun Central Coast Mariners goalkeeper Mat Ryan is focusing on his form in the A-League but admits he's also set his sights on an Australia call-up.
The 20-year-old has been a revelation since making his senior debut with the Mariners two years ago and many see him as a future national team player.
Ryan is clearly behind Australian No 1 Mark Schwarzer in the pecking order but believes he can challenge the likes of Adam Federici, Mitch Langerak and Brad Jones for a back-up spot.
Ryan's chance to make his Socceroos debut could come later this year, with coach Holger Osieck expected to rely heavily on A-League players for the 2013 East Asian Cup qualifiers in December.
"Representing Australia would be a great achievement," Ryan said.
"I have made it a little personal goal on the side.
"I just have to concentrate on playing here for the Mariners at the moment and hopefully putting in good performances.
"Holger has shown before that he picks players that are in form so, if I'm doing well here with the Mariners, I can't see why I possibly couldn't get the number three spot, which would be a great experience.
"But I'm not getting too far ahead of myself."
Ryan revealed he was trying to improve his game after receiving some helpful tips from veteran English Premier League shotstopper Brad Friedel during a trial with Tottenham Hotspur in August.
While Ryan was not able to secure a switch to Europe from several trials, he said the experience was a worthwhile one.
"Obviously it is a great experience, going over there and mixing it with the best in the game," Ryan said.
"... I'm just trying to implement a few things I learnt from the senior keeper over there Brad Friedel and, once it becomes consistent, it will result in clean sheets."
The Mariners are looking to bounce back against Melbourne Heart at AAMI Park on Sunday after a 2-1 loss to Newcastle.
Ryan was the star of the corresponding fixture last season, making a string of superb saves as the Mariners prevailed 1-0.
"That game was pretty memorable," Ryan said.
"But for the team's sake, I hope I'm not that busy and I can just sit back, relax and watch the boys put a few away."
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